The Department of Tourism (DOT) has welcomed the international recognition of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), which ranked 7th worldwide for layover food options and 6th for most affordable airport lounge access in the global Layover Airport Index by UK-based Airport Parking and Hotels (APH).
The index evaluated the 50 busiest airports in the world, measuring factors such as dining choices, food prices, lounge access, and overall passenger experience to determine the “Best Layover Airports in the World.”
NAIA secured Top 10 placements in two categories—best airport food options and most affordable airport lounge access—reflecting recent upgrades and expanded dining concepts at the country’s main international gateway.
In December, airport operator New NAIA Infra Corp (NNIC) introduced several new facilities at Terminal 3, including the All-Filipino Tambayan Food Hall, the Mezzanine Food Hall, and a new Dignitaries Lounge, as part of ongoing modernization initiatives.
The DOT welcomed these improvements, noting that enhanced dining spaces and passenger amenities are helping elevate the travel experience at NAIA.
“The recognition highlights progress while emphasizing the value of ongoing modernization work. These efforts are part of NAIA’s privatization initiative designed to further enhance the experience for all visitors passing through the country’s primary air hub,” the DOT said in a statement posted on its official Facebook page.
According to the DOT, NAIA’s average lounge access price of £18.80 (around ₱1,492) ranks among the most affordable globally.
NNIC has also strengthened services for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), establishing a VIP-style lounge at Terminal 3 that is free of charge for OFWs, while refurbishing the existing OFW Lounge at Terminal 1. Both facilities offer comfortable seating, high-speed Wi-Fi, charging stations, power outlets, and complimentary food and beverages provided by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
Since taking over NAIA’s management, NNIC has rolled out several improvements, including biometric immigration e-gates at Terminal 3 and expanded passenger facilities.
The two new food halls have significantly boosted dining capacity and options at the airport. The Tambayan All-Filipino Food Hall, a 6,200-square-meter space, can accommodate up to 2,000 guests and highlights Filipino cuisine.
Meanwhile, the Mezzanine Food Hall, covering 6,801 square meters, hosts more than 20 stand-alone restaurants and cafés and can seat around 600 passengers.
In total, NAIA now features 131 restaurants and cafés, strengthening its position as a notable global destination for layover dining. The complete list of these establishments is available in this link: https://newnaia.com.ph/discover/dining.